Sports

Michigan Native Skips White House Event For NHL Champs

PHILADELPHIA, PA – JANUARY 22: Tim Thomas #30 of the Boston Bruins makes a second period save against Wayne Simmonds #17 of the Philadelphia Flyers on January 22, 2012 at Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)

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WASHINGTON (AP) — Boston Bruins goalie Tim Thomas says he didn’t attend the White House ceremony with President Barack Obama honoring the team for its 2011 Stanley Cup Championship because he believes the federal government “has grown out of control” and threatens rights and liberties.

Thomas said on his Facebook page Monday night he was exercising his rights. He said it wasn’t “about politics or party,” and he blames both political parties.

The veteran goaltender helped lead the Bruins to their sixth Stanley Cup and was MVP of last year’s playoffs. He was among the players Obama singled out for praise during the ceremony.

The Bruins said later they’re disappointed Thomas didn’t attend “a great day”, and his views don’t reflect those of the team owners or organization.